Grants available for clean fuel projects

SALT LAKE CITY — State air regulators are seeking to fund projects to help improve Utah's air quality.

The Utah Division of Air Quality is looking to award a total of $250,000 in grants and another $250,000 in loans from the Clean Fuels Grant and Loan Program. Funds are awarded to help businesses and governments to purchase clean fuel technologies that reduce emissions.

Proposals must be submitted to DAQ no later than 5 pm on Dec. 13. The awards will be announced in March.

"A significant portion of Utah's air pollution comes from vehicles," said Bryce Bird, director of DAQ. "By providing incentives, the state can work with local governments and the business community to increase the use of clean fuel technologies to reduce emissions from vehicles."

Since 2009, DAQ has awarded $981,658 in grants and $366,667 in loans to more than 21 different organizations. Projects have included the conversion of cars, trucks and shuttle buses to natural gas as well as the purchase of natural gas refuse trucks, freight trucks, transit buses, street sweepers, aerial truck towers, glass recycling vehicles and refueling stations.